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Climbing and via ferrata in the Rila mountains, Bulgaria

Climbing and via ferrata in the Rila mountains, Bulgaria
Climbing and via ferrata in the Rila mountains, Bulgaria
Climbing and via ferrata in the Rila mountains, Bulgaria
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Join Kiril, an experienced local mountain leader for 2 full days of climbing and via ferrata in the Rila mountains in Bulgaria.

Private

Rila Mountains

2 Days

Jun - Oct

High

Intermediate


Highlights

  • Climb, scramble and abseil your way around four spectacular peaks.
  • Traverse a classic via ferrata route that ends near picturesque lakes.
  • Witness breathtaking vistas of the Rila mountains.

Description

Join me on 2 -full days of adrenaline rush in one of the most spectacular alpine areas of the Rila mountains in Bulgaria. Situated in southwestern Bulgaria, Rila is the highest mountain range of Bulgaria and the Balkan Peninsula. With a concentration of vertical walls and rock giants over 400 m, this spot is simply perfect for some real adventure.

The trip has so much to offer. You will have a mix of rock climbing, mountaineering and via ferrata in the Malyovitsa area. This region is symbolic for Bulgarian mountaineering.

We’ll begin and end this trip in the capital city of Sofia. From here, a drive of about 1.5 hour takes us to the Malyovitsa area, the starting point of our climb. Here, you’ll be presented with two routes to climb the peak of Zliya Zab and you can choose according to your expertise.

It will be a true adventure of climbing, scrambling and abseiling as you capture not just Zliya Zab but also three other spectacular peaks on the first day. The second day involves a classic via ferrata route that ends near picturesque lakes offering breathtaking views.

Regarding difficulty, keep in mind that it is a demanding trip which requires you to be fit and have previous mountaineering experience. Rest I am there to guide you through difficult passages, so you don’t have to worry.

So, what are you waiting for? Send a message now to hop on some extreme adventure of climbing and via ferrata in the Rila mountains in Bulgaria.

I also guide this 10-day hiking trip where we visit the beautiful monasteries, mountains, and lakes in Bulgaria.

Price includes

  • Accommodation included
  • Guiding fee
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Transport during the trip

Price details

  • Price per person.

Itinerary

Day 1: Climb the peak of Zliya zab

Transfer from your hotel or the airport to Malyovitsa area. There are 2 ways to the summit of Zliya zab from here.

Option 1-Climb the Zliya zab peak via the south ridge. It is an easier climb.

Hike the scenic south ridge for about 3.5 hours to reach the peak of Zliya zab. The way down involves abseiling and hiking.

Option 2-Zliya zab peak via its northeast ridge. It is a more difficult route.

Hike for about 2.5 hours to a col between the two peaks of Zliya zab (2678m) and Lovnica (2695m). This is the starting point for some real climbing! From here, the climb to the summit of Zliya zab will take around 3 hours. After a short break, you’ll abseil via the south side and continue to tackle two more peaks of Orlovets (2685m) and Petlite.

Finally, you’ll descend to the guesthouse for dinner and a good night’s rest.

Day 2: Take on the via ferrata

After a hearty breakfast, begin on a short hike to the bottom of Kuklata rock (2257m) to take on the via ferrata. Traversing the via ferrata will take 2-2½ hours, after which you’ll reach the ridge to see panoramic views of the neighbouring peaks and valleys.

After a short break, you’ll descend and will be transferred back to Sofia.

 

Details

More info

Please don't forget to bring along: Water bottle, Backpack, Hiking Clothes, Waterproofs, Fleece Jacket, Hat, Gloves, Suncream and Climbing Shoes.

Meeting point

Sofia Airport or Your Hotel

Equipment you will need to bring

Water bottle

Backpack

Hiking clothes and boots, waterproofs, fleece, jacket, hat ,thin gloves, sun hat, suncream, climbing shoes if possible


FAQs

What are some recommended accommodations near our adventure location?

We understand that finding the perfect place to stay is an essential part of your adventure experience. To help you with this, we’ve curated a list of three highly recommended hotels that offer comfort, convenience, and a touch of local charm. These accommodations are well-suited for adventurers looking to relax and rejuvenate after an exciting day of exploration
Hotel Elbrus Blagoevgrad Bulgaria
See rooms
Hotel Luxor Blagoevgrad Bulgaria
See rooms
City Hotel Blagoevgrad Bulgaria
See rooms

About the guide

Guide profile image

Kiril

5.0

(6)

Mountain Leader

I was born in the mountains and fell in love with them since I was a little kid. My father was an alpinist and I grew up surrounded by lots of mountaineering books from the family library. I love staying in and moving through a natural environment, no matter if on skis, crampons, bike, climbing or running shoes.

I started guiding in 2016 and I haven't stopped since then. What a great chance to turn my passion into my job! I'm a certified mountain guide in Bulgaria, climbing instructor and ski instructor. I'm working together with a great team of IFMGA and UIMLA certified guides. We work at Climbing and Mountaineering School in Sofia, where we give climbing courses.

We guide in all the Bulgarian mountains and abroad. In summer, we offer rock climbing, trail running and mountaineering tours; in winter, ski touring, freeriding, ice and mix climbing.

I look forward to sharing mountain adventures together!

Languages

English

Request more information

What people are saying about this trip

João

Joao

Fiona

From start to finish Kiril was the perfect guide! we had the most amazing time and would love to join him on future adventures. Thanks so much!

Lesley

We had a very good climbing experience with our guide Kiril in the Rila mountains! Even though we were on different levels and had to change plans, Kiril always had an option at hand! Wouldn't want to miss a minute! Thank you so so much!

Paul

Kiril loves the mountains and it really shows. He is very experienced and explained everything carefully and patiently. He was also very flexible with adjusting the trip to our personal preferences. We loved our trip with him and would definitely recommend it!


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